VMD 513: Pet animal Breeding, Management, Nutrition and Health Care (1+1)

UPPER RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS (URIs) 

• URIs are similar to the common cold in humans. Symptoms include sneezing, running nose and eyes, reddened eyes, fever, and decreased appetite.
• If left untreated URIs can be fatal. These airborne viruses are highly contagious; they can be transmitted to cats through human handling and through contact with other cats and with inanimate objects such as litter boxes, food bowls, and grooming tools.
• Separate any new cat from your other cats for at least three weeks until you are sure that the newcomer doesn't have any symptoms of a URI.
• Prevention is the best approach to URIs. Get your cat vaccinated. But if your cat exhibits URI symptoms contact your veterinarian immediately.
• The veterinarian will probably prescribe a dosage of antibiotics to prevent secondary infections and give you precise care instructions.
• Follow them carefully and make sure your cat eats and drinks sufficiently.